11 Silent Autoimmune Alarms Your Dermatologist Won't Catch

5. Dry Eyes or Dry Mouth, Not Just Aging

It’s easy to attribute parched eyes or a dry, sticky mouth to aging, allergies, or medications. Yet, for some, persistent dryness is the immune system’s way of crying out for help. Sjögren’s syndrome—an autoimmune disorder well-known for drying out the body’s moisture-producing glands—often develops so quietly that even experienced dermatologists overlook it, especially if you don’t bring up how much your eyes or mouth are bothering you.

6. Unexplained Low-Grade Fever or Chills

Sometimes, autoimmune alarms sound softly: a low-grade fever or intermittent chills that don’t come with a cold or obvious infection. These subtle temperature changes—a slight bump above your normal but not enough for a classic fever—can be a sign your immune system is in overdrive. Many people with autoimmune conditions, especially early on, notice waves of unexplained warmth, sweats, or chills that just seem out of place.